Ghanaian MPs caught in Kenyan protests confirmed safe by High Commission

Ghana’s High Commission in Kenya has confirmed the safety of five Members of Parliament (MPs) and an accompanying officer who were caught up in the recent violent protests in Kenya.

Earlier reports had raised concerns about the MPs' safety amid the escalating unrest.

The delegation, consisting of members from the Local Government Committee of Ghana’s Parliament, was on a benchmarking visit to the Kenyan Parliament when the incident occurred.

The MPs include the Committee Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi; Ranking Member, Hon. Edwin Nii Lance Vanderpuye; Hon. Sylvester Tetteh; Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko; Hon. Mohammed Taferu; and Senior Principal Assistant Clerk, Anita Quartey Papafio.

In a statement dated Wednesday, June 26, the Ghanaian Parliament confirmed that the delegation was promptly “escorted and secured in the Senate building and finally evacuated to their hotel by Officials of the Kenyan Parliament.”

The statement also expressed gratitude for the public's concern and assured that efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of the delegation to Ghana.

The protests in Kenya, initially sparked by social media-driven grassroots movements, have grown into widespread demonstrations across the country.

On Tuesday afternoon, Nairobi experienced significant chaos as protesters targeted key government buildings, including the governor’s office, city hall, and the national parliament, all of which were set ablaze.

The day began with protesters vowing a 'total shutdown', and tensions quickly escalated, leading to the destructive attacks on these iconic symbols of government authority.

Parliament has acknowledged the public's concern for the MPs' safety and assured that measures are in place to facilitate their secure return to Ghana.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith